My Professional Background

I am a licensed professional counselor serving clients in person from my Dallas office and via telehealth across the state of Texas. I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) through the IFS Institute as well as advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). 

I believe in the transformative power of post-traumatic growth.  I also believe that addressing recurrent emotional pain and problematic patterns is bold, courageous work that can result in more peace for the individual as well as the world at large. Freedom and well-being come when we mindfully and lovingly allow our feelings to be present so they can be integrated (without getting overwhelmed or lost in them). Since many of us were never taught how to be with our more difficult feelings, this may seem counterintuitive and even scary! As my primary approach, IFS provides a flexible, gentle framework to guide clients to unlock their own inner wisdom to do this.  It also facilitates the release of past wounding and limiting beliefs beneath these feelings, bringing more ease and contentment to one's life. I have observed the healing power of IFS with clients, and I have experienced it for myself as well.  You can check out IFS: My Primary Approach for more information. 

I have wanted to be a counselor from a young age, consistently interested in how people are affected by what happens to them and how I can help. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology in 2005 from Drury University where I played NCAA soccer. I was also president of the Psychology Honors Society and awarded Psychology Student of the Year. From there I obtained my Masters of Science in counseling psychology from the University of North Texas in 2007.  

I have vast experience working with individuals of all ages in various settings and levels of care. In addition to years in private practice, I have also provided therapy to children, teens and their families involved in the foster care and juvenile justice systems, and I have conducted evaluations to guide the rehabilitation of adults in the legal system.  

In 2016, I decided to stay home for a few years after giving birth to my two children. I initially felt quite confident in my parenting skills, believing I had a decent grasp of how motherhood would go. I quickly realized my expectations did not match my reality, and subsequently went through my own period of self-exploration, personal growth, and healing. I returned to work with an even deeper and clearer purpose, and feel more fulfilled in my work than ever before. 

In my free time, I enjoy yoga, learning, traveling, and engaging in general silliness with my family.  I am so very grateful for my husband and children with whom I get to grow and share life's challenges and beauty.